Indoor Softball

1. Suspended Game (Non-Regulation)

A non-regulation game is declared when fewer than five innings have been completed (or less than 4.5 innings if the home team is trailing) and play must be halted due to rain, darkness, or other unforeseen events. In such cases, the game is not valid and must be rescheduled in its entirety.

2. Batting Order

The batting order is the predetermined sequence in which a team's players will bat during a game. Prior to the start of the game, teams must submit a batting lineup to the umpire in triplicate, listing player numbers, fielding positions, and substitutes. Once submitted, the batting order cannot be altered except through formal substitutions. All players must bat in the listed order throughout the game.

3. Out

An out occurs when an offensive player is legally retired by the defensive team through strikeouts, force outs, tag outs, fly outs, or rule violations such as interference. Once three outs are recorded, the teams switch roles between offense and defense.

4. Dead Ball

A dead ball situation arises when play is stopped due to a foul ball, rule infraction, interference, or when the ball contacts an object out of play. The umpire will raise both arms and declare "Dead Ball." All activity ceases immediately. Play resumes once the ball is returned to the pitcher in the pitching circle and the umpire signals "Play."

5. Delayed Dead Ball

A delayed dead ball occurs when a rule violation takes place-such as an illegal pitch or catcher's interference-but the umpire delays the call to allow the play to develop in the offense's favor. The umpire will extend one arm to signal the delay. Once play stops, a ruling is made based on the outcome. If no advantage is gained (e.g., no base advancement), the offensive coach may choose between the play result or the penalty enforcement.

6. Time-Out

A time-out is called when special circumstances arise on the field. The umpire will raise both arms diagonally and call "Time." This halts all play and creates a dead ball situation. After resolving the issue, the umpire will resume the game by giving the ball to the pitcher and signaling "Play."

7. Time-Out for Coaching

During a dead ball or time-out, coaches may request permission to instruct their players. If granted, the opposing coach may also utilize the same time-out. Each team is allowed one offensive time-out per inning. Defensively, time-outs are restricted to giving instructions to the pitcher. A second defensive time-out within the same inning results in the pitcher being removed from that position for the remainder of the game.